The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Major (Armor) Stephen G. Zajac, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Friendly, Maryland on 7 March 1970. On that date Major Zajac ran to the scene of an airplane crash and was instrumental in extricating the injured pilot from the aircraft, getting the pilot and passenger to a safe area away from the craft, administering first aid, and controlling the onlookers who had gathered. These acts took place while the aircraft was subjected to momentary fire and explosion from its leaking fuel and damaged electrical power system. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of the service to his country, Major Stephen G. Zajac as reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.